Alleged social media post by SNP inclusivity official breaches International Definition of Antisemitism
An SNP official recently elected as the Party’s disabled members’ convener is alleged to have published a social media post that breaches the International Definition of Antisemitism.
Andy Stuart is claimed to have written on Twitter and Facebook in 2016: “The irony is that Israeli forces are acting no better towards the Palestinians than the Nazi’s [sic] did to the Jews…” The post also shared a link to a Facebook group called “Palestine News”.
According to the International Definition of Antisemitism, “drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis” is an example of antisemitism.
An SNP spokesman said: “Mr Stuart has deleted these posts from 2016, which were made shortly after the drafting of the [International Definition of Antisemitism]. He appreciates the poor choice of words at that time and why it could cause offence. The National Secretary will examine the circumstances to assess what further steps are required.”
A spokesperson for Campaign Against Antisemitism said: “According to the International Definition of Antisemitism, which the SNP under Nicola Sturgeon has adopted, ‘Drawing comparisons of contemporary Israeli policy to that of the Nazis’ is an example of antisemitism. Promotion of such views is intolerable in a political party, and it is particularly heinous coming from a figure at the forefront of equality campaigns in the SNP. The SNP must urgently investigate, be seen to apply its Definition, and take action.”
Campaign Against Antisemitism advocates for zero tolerance of antisemitism in public life. To that end we monitor all political parties and strive to ensure that any cases of concern are properly addressed.